Construction Project Manager in Training

High Light Electric • Colton, CA

3d • $38 - $52 • Onsite

About The Position

High-Light Electric (HLE) is seeking an experienced professional to develop into a Construction Project Manager. This is a development opportunity—not an entry-level role—for candidates with a foundation in construction operations, project coordination, project management, or comparable experience managing projects in another industry. Working with experienced Project Managers and construction leadership, the employee will gain hands-on experience in project planning, financial management, field operations, compliance, and project execution. Responsibilities will expand as the employee demonstrates readiness and consistent performance.

The role supports public works and civil infrastructure projects from preconstruction through closeout. It is primarily office-based at HLE’s Colton office, with regular travel to active construction sites throughout Central and Southern California. The work may involve roadway and infrastructure environments, nighttime operations, live traffic, outdoor conditions, and construction equipment. The position provides mentoring, training, performance discussions, and ongoing development through The Mendoza Way and the BUILD talent management program. It is designed as a pathway toward Project Manager; advancement depends on demonstrated competency, performance, and organizational needs and is not guaranteed within a specific timeframe.

High-Light Electric, founded in 1996, is a California-based electrical infrastructure contractor specializing in public works and complex civil and electrical construction projects. It is part of Mendoza Companies, guided by Mission 2040: building a $1 billion business ecosystem connecting 1,000 families and communities through business by 2040. The company describes its culture as performance-driven and grounded in professionalism, respect, service, integrity, and accountability.

Requirements

• Typically 5 or more years of progressively responsible experience in construction field leadership, construction project support, or project management in another industry.
• Demonstrated leadership, accountability, sound judgment, and consistent follow-through.
• Experience with scheduling, budgeting, cost tracking, project documentation, operational reporting, or comparable project controls.
• Understanding of construction operations and project lifecycles, or strong transferable project management experience.
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work with project data, documentation, digital tools, and cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to receive coaching, apply feedback, learn new systems, and take increasing responsibility.
• Valid California driver's license and eligibility to drive under HLE's insurance carrier requirements.
• Ability to drive to active project sites as required for business operations.
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certification, or willingness to obtain it within HLE's established timeframe.
• Ability to work on-site at the Colton office and travel to construction sites throughout Central and Southern California.
• Availability to support nighttime field operations and critical project needs when required.
• Ability to safely perform essential site-related duties, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in civil construction, electrical infrastructure, or public works.
• Familiarity with Procore, Viewpoint Vista, Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms.
• Knowledge of prevailing wage, certified payroll, DIR requirements, or union labor environments.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• PMP, CCM, Lean Construction, or related professional certifications.
• Bilingual English and Spanish communication skills.
• Equivalent qualifications gained through practical experience, apprenticeships, specialized training, or education will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Support project planning and execution from preconstruction through closeout, including scheduling, resource coordination, procurement, and operational readiness.
• Develop proficiency in project budgets, cost tracking, forecasting, labor performance, and identifying financial risks.
• Prepare and maintain RFIs, submittals, change orders, contracts, meeting records, and other essential project documentation.
• Coordinate between Superintendents, Foremen, field crews, Project Accounting, Estimating, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.
• Learn and apply public works requirements, prevailing wage, certified payroll, union labor agreements, safety standards, and contractual obligations.
• Participate in project meetings, communicate progress, address challenges, and develop judgment for sound project decisions.
• Take on increasing project responsibility as knowledge and demonstrated capabilities grow.
• Participate in mentoring, training, performance discussions, and ongoing professional development.

Benefits

• Medical coverage for eligible employees, subject to applicable plan terms.
• Dental coverage for eligible employees, subject to applicable plan terms.
• Vision coverage for eligible employees, subject to applicable plan terms.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Life and AD&D insurance.
• Employee appreciation programs.
• Competitive compensation and additional benefits, subject to applicable plan terms.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed